Do I Need a Lawyer after a DUI Arrest?
If you’re facing DUI charges, you may be wondering if you need an attorney to help you prepare your defense. While you’re not required to seek legal representation, doing so could be a wise decision if you’re hoping to secure a favorable outcome. Not only can a lawyer handle the investigation into your arrest and represent you throughout proceedings, he or she can also provide you with support at each step.
In this article, we take a closer look at a few ways in which a Florida DUI lawyer could help you fight your DUI charges:
1. Help You Avoid Serious Errors
A skilled DUI lawyer can oversee almost all dialogue with the prosecutor on your behalf, so you won’t have to worry about saying something that might hurt your defense. Additionally, he or she can guide you through proceedings, advising you of common mistakes and how to avoid them. For example, you shouldn’t post about the arrest online as anything you write could be used to challenge your credibility and secure a conviction.
2. Protect Your Rights
During proceedings, you have certain rights that can’t be infringed. However, law enforcement officers may—either intentionally or unintentionally—fail to respect them. Thankfully, a criminal defense attorney can help spot any violations and make sure that these transgressions do not go unnoticed.
If there are signs that the prosecutor, police, or another party infringed on your rights, your lawyer can take the necessary actions to help hold these individuals or entities accountable. In some situations, depending on the nature of such infringements, it might even be possible to have the case against you dismissed.
3. Gather Evidence to Build Your Defense
A convincing defense is almost always built on a foundation of strong evidence. While you could gather the necessary proof to fight the charges you’re facing on your own, it’s all too easy to overlook crucial evidence that might play a role during proceedings. Fortunately, an attorney can investigate the day of the arrest, gathering and compiling the proof you may need to dismantle the prosecution’s case.
For instance, if the officers didn’t have probable cause to pull you over, this information could be used to suppress the evidence—such as breath test results—gathered during the stop. Keep in mind that much of this proof could be time-sensitive, so you will need to act quickly to collect it before it is altered, destroyed, or becomes unavailable for any other reason.
Speak to a DUI Lawyer in Palm Beach Gardens, FL Today
Have you been charged with a DUI? It might be in your best interests to speak to a skilled Florida DUI lawyer. Todd A. Kawecki has dedicated his career to representing those facing criminal charges. As a former prosecutor, he has a thorough understanding of the state’s criminal proceedings, statutes, and laws.
He can help investigate the arrest, make sure you don’t miss important deadlines, and provide tenacious representation throughout proceedings. Contact us today at 772-485-4500 or click through to our contact form HERE to request a free case review with a Florida DUI lawyer.